“Fleet Logistics Support Squadron THREE ZERO (VRC-30), traces its ancestry to Air Transport Squadron FIVE (VR-5) which was commissioned 24 June 1943 at Naval Air Station Seattle. The Squadron was tasked with flying the Douglas R-4D "Skytrain", R-5D "SkyMaster", Beechcraft SNB "Expeditor" and the Noorduyn JA-1 "Norseman" aircrafts in regular air service to Seattle, Oakland, San Francisco, the Aleutian Islands, Fairbanks and Point Barrow on the Alaskan Mainland.

In 1948, the Naval Air Transportation Service and Air Transport Command merged and became the Military Air Transport Service. VR-5 was placed under the command of Fleet Logistics Support Wing, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

In 1950, VR-5 moved its base of operations from NAS Seattle to NAS Moffett Field CA. Detachments were established in Seattle and at NAS North Island, CA. VR-5 was decommissioned 15 July 1957 and became VR-21, with detachments at Atsugi, Japan and NAS North Island. VR-21 was the first squadron to fly dedicated Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) aircraft, the TBM-3Rs, transport version of the TBM-3E the General Motors version of the World War II Grumman Avenger torpedo bomber.

On 26 June 1958, VR-21 NAS North Island Detachment made the first COD with the Grumman C-1A Trader aircraft to the USS YORKTOWN (CV-10). The Detachment relocated to NAS Alameda in 1960.

On 1 October 1966 VR-21 was decommissioned. The Atsugi Detachment became VRC-50, and the Alameda Detachment was commissioned as Fleet Tactical Support Squadron THREE ZERO (VR-30) equipped with Convair C-131 Samaritans and C-1A Trader aircraft. VR-30's mission included logistics support for Commander in Chief U.S. Pacific Fleet units. On 9 November 1966, VR-30 made their first COD arrested landing in the C-1A on the USS BON HOMME RICHARD (CVA-31). The squadron was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation for exemplary service from 1 January to 30 November 1967. From 1968 to 1973 VR-30 COD detachments operated aboard various carriers in support of recovery operations for Apollo X, XI, XII, and XVI.

In 1969, squadron C-1A's and crews operated from Danang, Republic of Vietnam in support of CTF-77. In 1971 VR-30 joined the Jet Age with two North American CT-39 Saberliners for high-speed executive airlift. In May 1973 the squadron received the first of four C-9B Skytrain II's to further improve its logistics support capability.

On 12 march 1974 the Navy's first female Aviator, Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Barbara A. Allen reported for duty. After relocating to NAS North Island, VR-30 was decommissioned on 1 October 1978 and VRC-30 was concurrently commissioned. VRC-30 transitioned to the C2-A in late 1981 by accepting deliveries of the first "Greyhounds", the aircraft the squadron operates today.

In February 1980, VRC-30 added the C-12 Fleet Replacement Squadron, providing ground and flight instruction for all Pacific Fleet Navy and Marine Corps Pilots and Aircrew in the UC-12B/F Beechcraft Super King Air. VRC-30's C-12 FRS acts as the Commander, Naval Air Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet NATOPS Model Manager and Unit Evaluator, in addition to their primary job of flight instruction.

In 1994 VRC-30 took sole responsibility for Pacific Fleet C-2 operations by absorbing personnel and aircraft when VRC-50 was decommissioned. VRC-30 DET FIVE was established in August 1994 in Atsugi, Japan as part of Carrier Air Wing Five and the Forward Deployed Naval Forces. Four deployable sea going detachments were formed at North Island, supported by a "homeguard" shore component. In 1997 VRC-30's detachment THREE became the first fully integrated, night capable C-2 detachment when it deployed with CVW-2 aboard USS CONSTELLATION (CV-64).

1998 proved to be another banner year for the Providers at VRC-30. Provider detachments continued to set the standard for day/night logistics support with two highly successful deployments. Detachment ONE posted an impressive total of over 290,000 lbs. of cargo, 175,000 lbs. of mail, and over 2300 passengers carried in support of the USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) Battlegroup. While on WESTPAC Detachment ONE earned the Golden Hook Award for the best landing grades in the Airwing, a squadron first. Detachment TWO aboard USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70) followed suit, operating daily in support of Operation Desert Fox and Operation Southern Watch. In calendar year 1998, VRC-30 was able to accomplish astounding results including: 1356 carrier landings, 14,360 passengers, 1,877,973 lbs of cargo, and a sortie completion rate of 99.9%.

As of December 1999, the squadron has achieved 24 years and over 149,600 hours of accident-free flight. VRC-30 was awarded the Chief of Naval Operations Safety Award six times between 1979 and 1992 and the Meritorious Unit Commendation for exemplary service from October 1993 to September 1994. In 1996 the Providers were awarded their first ever COMNAVAIRPAC Battle Efficiency Award and again received the honor in 1998. VRC-30 again garnered the CNO Aviation Safety Award in 1998. In March 1998 the command adopted a full detachment concept, as a result of a 140 person reduction in manning. As a result; all five detachments have remained active thoughout the turn around cycle.

The year 2000 marked a new millennium in which VRC-30 continued their tradition of excellence and on time delivery of critical parts, cargo, passengers, and mail. The Providers delivered over 2.1 million pounds of cargo and mail to the fleet and more than 16,000 passengers and Distinguished Visitors were safely transported to and from carriers at sea. In addition, the FRS side of the house trained 82 new fleet ready C-12 pilots and instructor pilots and 47 newly qualified C-12/26 aircrew.

2011 marked another exceptional year for VRC-30! The Providers were awarded the COMNAVAIRPAC Battle Efficiency Award as well as the COMPACFLT Retention Excellence Award for Fiscal Year 2011. Over the course of the year, the Provider team deployed four detachments, ONE, TWO, FOUR and FIVE, in support of Overseas Contingency Operations, Operation NEW DAWN, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM, and Operation TOMODACHI. In all, the Providers of VRC-30 flew over 4,800 flight hours, safely transporting 15,244 passengers, 4,277 distinguished visitors and 2,254,471 lbs of high priority cargo and mail to five carriers at sea” (Ref. http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vrc30/history.html & http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VRC-30).

“VRC-30 deploys using the detachment concept. There are four detachments based at Naval Air Station North Island, San Diego, CA and one permanently forward deployed to Atsugi, Japan. Each detachment utilizes two aircraft to accomplish the Carrier Onboard Delivery (COD) mission for their assigned Pacific Fleet Strike Group. The COD mission includes the transport of high priority parts, general cargo, mail, and passengers, including distinguished visitors encompassing U.S. and foreign diplomats and dignitaries. Each detachment is usually manned with seven pilots, one maintenance officer, and 34 enlisted personnel, including six enlisted aircrew/crew chiefs” (Ref. http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vrc30/dets.html).

“Detachment ONE recently completed a very successful five month surge in 2009 deploying with Carrier AIRWING FOURTEEN on USS RONALD REAGAN (CVN-76) in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. This highly regarded detachment flew over 700 hours while safely transporting 2,348 passengers, 303 distinguished visitors, 286,705 pounds of high priority cargo and 53,785 pounds of mail to the RONALD REAGAN Strike Group. The detachment deployed again in 2010 in support of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise in which the detachment transported a remarkable 616 distinguished visitors, 627 passengers, and 87,850 pounds of high priority cargo and mail in only six weeks” (Ref.

“Detachment TWO recently completed a very successful deployment with Carrier AIRWING TWO aboard USS ABRAHAM LINCOLN (CVN-72) in support of Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and NEW DAWN in the North Arabian Sea. The Detachment flew a total of 316 flight hours while safely transporting 2313 passengers, 522 distinguished visitors, over 400,000 pounds of high priority cargo, and 127,000 pounds of mail between ship and shore over the course of the six month deployment” (Ref. http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vrc30/dets.html).

“Detachment THREE completed an extremely successful eight month deployment in 2010 with Carrier AIRWING ELEVEN on USS NIMITZ (CVN-68) in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM in the North Arabian Sea. The detachment flew over 770 hours, delivering 349,905 pounds of high priority cargo, 179,414 pounds of mail, 2,275 passengers and 312 distinguished visitors to the Nimitz Strike Group in the last six months of cruise and executed a remarkable post cruise MCI. Detachment III also stood up to support the USS NIMITZ (CVN-68) during Operation NEPTUNE SCISSORS in the Eastern Pacific. The detachment flew over 49 hours, delivering 17,133 pounds of high priority cargo and 99 passengers to the Nimitz Strike Group” (Ref. http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vrc30/dets.html).

“Detachment FOUR completed an extremely successful six month Western Pacific deployment in 2009 with Carrier AIRWING NINE on USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) in support of OPERATION FOAL EAGLE and NORTHERN EDGE. The detachment flew over 400 hours, transporting 314,777 lbs. of high priority cargo, 99,570 pounds of mail, 1,709 passengers, 593 Distinguished Visitors (DV) and 10 Medical Evacuations (MEDEVAC), two of which were life saving” (Ref.

“Detachment FIVE continued to operate at the "Tip of the Spear", permanently forward deployed with Commander Task Force SEVENTY to the Western Pacific Ocean. Their homeport is Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan and they deployed with Carrier Air Wing FIVE aboard USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN 73). In 2010, VRC-30 Det FIVE flew 940.7 hours and transported 515,600 pounds of cargo, 190,700 pounds of mail, 3,488 passengers and 660 distinguished visitors between ship and shore” (Ref. http://www.cacclw.navy.mil/vrc30/dets.html).

“Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40 (VRC-40), also known as the "Rawhides", is a United States Navy fleet logistics support squadron based at Naval Air Station Norfolk. Commissioned in 1960, it is only one of two active fleet logistics squadrons in the Navy.

Maintaining and flying the squadron's 14 aircraft are nearly 320 enlisted personnel and 42 officers. Unlike most squadrons, VRC-40 does not deploy as a unit. Instead, it prepares five separate sea going detachments with a two-plane complement while maintaining a shore "Homeguard" to support local operational commitments. Based at remote forward logistics sites, the deployed detachments support multiple Carrier Strike Groups that operate in the Second, Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Fleets aboard deployed aircraft carriers providing continuous fleet support. VRC-40 supports the fleet from ships and bases as far north as Norway, down the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast, throughout the Caribbean, in Central and South America, and all over the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern theaters. Recently, VRC-40 played a vital role in support of combat missions during Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom and was selected as the Commander Naval Air Force Battle "E" winner for the 2010 calendar year.

After flying the Grumman C-1A Trader aircraft for over 26 years, VRC-40 completed a transition to the C-2A in 1986, marking the end of the reciprocating engine era in Naval Aviation history. VRC-40's continuing mission is the efficient transportation of passengers, mail, and cargo to and from carriers at sea.

While speed and efficiency are requisite to completion of the squadron's mission, safety is of paramount importance. Among VRC-40's many achievements and accomplishments, the "Rawhides" recently reached one of the highest honors in Aviation Safety by successfully completing 25 years of class "A" mishap free flying.

“Sea Control Squadron 22 (VS-22) Checkmates was a carrier-based United States Navy squadron based out of Naval Air Station Jacksonville in Florida. The squadron flew the Lockheed S-3B Viking and their mission was mining, undersea and surface warfare, electronic reconnaissance and analysis, over the horizon targeting, and aerial refueling. The squadron was last attached to Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17) and was the last squadron flying the Viking. VS-22 was disestablished in a ceremony at NAS Jacksonville on January 29, 2009, and officially on March 31, 2009.[1]

Two distinct squadrons have been designated VS-22. The second of these is the main subject of this article. Officially, the US Navy does not recognize a direct lineage with disestablished squadrons if a new squadron is formed with the same designation[2]. Often, the new squadron will assume the nickname, insignia, and traditions of the earlier squadrons.

A new anti-submarine squadron VS-22 was established at NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island (USA), on 18 May 1960. From 1960 to 1976, the Checkmates flew the Grumman S-2 Tracker, better known as "Stoof" from its pre-1962 designation "S2F". VS-22 was assigned to Carrier Anti-Submarine Air Group 54 (CVSG-54) at NAS Quonset Point and operated from Essex-class anti-submarine carriers, mostly in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea:

Besides the typical submarine hunting role for which the aircraft was designed, the Checkmates held a significant role in the United States space program. Naval aviatorAlan B. Shepard's Freedom 7 spacecraft, the United States' first manned spacecraft, was tracked and located by VS-22 on 5 May 1961. In August 1965, while embarked on USS Lake Champlain, VS-22 recovered Gemini 5 astronauts Gordon Cooper and Pete Conrad. Finally, VS-22 was engaged in the recovery of Apollo 7 astronauts while deployed aboard USS Essex.

This was followed by seven cruises aboard USS John F. Kennedy, including participation in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm in 1990/91. Operation "Desert Storm" commenced on 17 January 1991. VS-22 aircrews flew over 1100 combat hours and 324 combat sorties in direct support of the coalition forces. Target information gleaned by VS-22 aircraft played a major role in the suppression of enemy air defences during the first days of Desert Storm. From 22 January 1991 until the cease-fire on 28 February 1991, the Checkmates flew in every CVW-3 strike against Iraq. VS-22 was also employed in support of CJTF-4 counter narcotics operations during the last part of 1991 through the first part of 1992 earned the Checkmates the "Joint Meritorious Unit Award" for locating over 1500 contacts, confirming 50 as suspected offenders. After a long pre-deployment work-up schedule, VS-22 embarked on the carrier USS John F. Kennedy in October 1992. Concentrating on multi-national Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea exercises during the first half of deployment, VS-22 provided initial in-flight refueling training for Egyptian Air ForceMirage 2000 pilots and practiced ASW skills while leading over 40 multi-national, integrated and air wing exercise strikes against NATO ships. Later VS-22 participated in Operations Provide Comfort and Provide Promise, providing radar locating and command and control information. In February 1994, VS-22 joined CVW-3 and USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. It was at this time that United States Congress passed laws permitting the embarkation of women in combat units. VS-22 had the distinction of being the first S-3B command to be assigned female sailors. On 16 April 1995, VS-22 returned from their Mediterranean deployment onboard Dwight D. Eisenhower. On 26 November 1996, VS-22 deployed onboard USS Theodore Roosevelt to the Mediterranean and the North Persian Gulf. VS-22 participated in operations "Southern Watch" and "Decisive Endeavor" as well as numerous other joint exercises. On 21 April 1997, in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Checkmates became the first S-3B squadron to launch the AGM-65F Infrared Maverick missile. VS-22 next deployed onboard USS Enterprise. VS-22 participated in various exercises such as Operation Desert Fox, Juniper Stallion and Noble Anvil, mostly providing electronic warfare support.

2000s

In November 2000 VS-22 and CVW-3 embarked on USS Harry S. Truman's maiden deployment. On 16 February 2001, CVW-3 participated in strikes against Iraq as a part of Operation Southern Watch. The Checkmates deployed for a second time with the Truman in December 2002, this time participating in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, launching missions from the Eastern Mediterranean. October 2004 saw VS-22 deploying with CVW-3 and Harry S. Truman for the last time. VS-22 flew 1170 sorties and 3220 hours in support of "Operation Iraqi Freedom", patrolling the oil infrastructure in the Persian Gulf during "Operation Sea Dragon II" missions.

VS-22 deployed in 2006 on USS George Washington, being assigned to CVW-17. VS-22 last carrier embark was from 7 April to 27 May 2008, aboard George Washington for the transit from Norfolk around South America to San Diego, California. Less than a week after returning from GW, VS-22 was ordered to deploy to Iraq as a land based squadron. The squadron operated from Al Asad Air Base in Al Anbar Province until their return to NAS Jacksonville on 15 December 2008. VS-22 was the last squadron flying the Viking, and was disestablished on 29 January 2009.[1]

“Sea Control Squadron Thirty remains prepared to conduct sustained combat operations from aircraft carriers in any environment to support National Command Authority objectives as promulgated by the Battle Group Commander, the Battle Group Strike Warfare Commander, and the Battle Group Sea Combat Commander. In the ever evolving world of naval aviation, VS-30 has helped keep the S-3B Viking on the cutting edge. They have accomplished this by adapting to a changing enemy threat and incorporating new weapons and technology.

During the post World War II years, TBM Avenger squadron VC-801 served as a component of the demobilized reserve Carrier ASW forces. On 1 August 1950, VC-801 was re-designated VS-801 at Miami, Florida, with 18 TBM-3E Avengers. The squadron was recalled to active duty on 1 February 1951 due to the military mobilization associated with the outbreak of the Korean War and moved its home station to NAS Norfolk, Virginia. In February of 1952, the squadron received its first AF-2S and AF-2W "Guardian" aircraft to replace the aging Avenger.

On 1 April 1953, Air Antisubmarine Squadron 801 was re-designated Air Antisubmarine Squadron THIRTY. During these early years, the squadron's emblem was developed from the original theme of the hunter "cat" stalking its prey. VS-30 transitioned to the Grumman S-2F Tracker in October 1954. The squadron deployed on "straight deck" CVS antisubmarine carriers to the Atlantic, Caribbean and Mediterranean Sea.

In June of 1960, VS-30 changed its base of operations from Norfolk, Virginia to NAS Key West, Florida and was designated the S-2 TRACKER Readiness Training Squadron for the Atlantic Fleet. As the East Coast training squadron, VS-30 earned the nickname "DIAMONDCUTTERS", by taking "nuggets" fresh from the training command and honing their skills to the fine edge needed to be fleet aviators. In October 1962, VS-30 crews integrated into fleet squadrons during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In order to consolidate all Atlantic Fleet VS assets at a single sight, VS-30 was directed to relocate its men and machines to NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island, in July 1970. VS-30 continued its primary mission of indoctrinating and training pilots, aircrewman, and maintenance personnel, compiling an impressive safety record of more than 50,000 accident free flight hours and earning several commendations for exemplary service. With the closure of NAS Quonset Point, VS-30 made another permanent move in September 1973 to NAS Cecil Field, Florida. The Diamondcutters continued to train S-2 aircrews and maintenance personnel. Eventually, VS-30 took over S-2 training for both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets as well as training for crews from Argentina, Turkey, Brazil, Venezuela, Peru and South Korea.

On 1 April 1976, after 22 years of flying the S-2 TRACKER, VS-30 became an operational fleet squadron and transitioned to the S-3A VIKING. The squadron received training in the maintenance and tactical utilization of their new aircraft at NAS North Island, California. The Diamondcutters began their first operational deployment with the S-3A in April 1978 aboard USS FORRESTAL (CV-59) as part of Carrier Air Wing SEVENTEEN (CVW 17).

Returning from the Mediterranean in October 1978, the Diamondcutters began preparing for their second Mediterranean Deployment with the S-3A, which began in November 1979. During this deployment, VS-30, CVW-17, and the USS FORRESTAL were members of the first Carrier Battle Group since World War II to be the only Carrier Battle Group in the Mediterranean. The Diamondcutters returned in May 1980 and deployed again to the Mediterranean aboard the USS FORRESTAL in March 1981. This third deployment included operations in the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean with support of the Battle Group's participation in the Palestinian evacuation of Lebanon. VS-30's fifth Viking deployment was in April 1984 aboard USS SARATOGA (CV-60) to the Mediterranean Sea. This deployment included the major NATO exerciseDRAGON HAMMER where the Diamondcutters continued to reach new flight hour and sortie completion milestones.

After a ten-month turnaround, the Diamondcutters deployed again in August 1985 to the Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean aboard USS SARATOGA on the most eventful cruise in history. This deployment included operations in support of national tasking during the ACHILLE LAURO hijacking crisis, the first ever night transit of the Suez Canal by a U.S. warship, and the crossing of the equator for the first time in squadron history. During this period VS-30 was the only S-3A squadron deployed from the East Coast. Later in the deployment, the squadron provided continuous surveillance support during three freedom of navigation operations in the vicinity of Libya.

The squadron returned from the seven and one-half month deployment in April 1986 and, following a fourteen-month turnaround, again deployed to the Mediterranean Sea aboard USS SARATOGA. During this highly successful deployment VS-30 was awarded the COMSIXTHFLT 'HOOK-EM" Award for ASW excellence and was nominated for the Arleigh Burke Fleet Trophy. VS-30 returned to NAS Cecil Field in November 1987.

In February 1988, VS-30 was awarded its first COMNAVAIRLANT Battle Efficiency Award and its third CNO Aviation Safety Award. In May 1988, VS-30 participated in a highly successful joint exercise with the Colombian Navy. Following the squadron's return from Colombia, VS-30 was awarded its first CAPT Arnold J. Isbell Award and the Admiral John S. Thatch Award for USW excellence. In July 1988, VS-30 became the first fleet squadron to receive the enhanced capability Harpoon/ISAR equipped S-3B. In August 1988, the squadron deployed aboard USS INDEPENDENCE (CV-62) for the "Around the Horn" cruise.

On 7 August 1990, the Diamondcutters deployed with Carrier Air Wing Seventeen onboard USS SARATOGA to the Red Sea as part of the UN Coalition Forces in direct support of Operations DESERT SHIELD/DESERT STORM. The S-3B was used in every facet of naval forces tasking during maritime interdiction and in subsequent strike operations against Iraq during Operation DESERT STORM. VS-30 returned to NAS Cecil Field after a seven and one-half month deployment during which squadron aircrews flew in more than 44 strikes and compiled 1,230 flight hours in 258 combat sorties.

VS-30 deployed on USS SARATOGA again on 5 May 1992, the squadron's ninth Viking cruise. The ensuing six month Mediterranean deployment included large scale NATO exercise, DISPLAY DETERMINATION. VS-30 had a banner year in 1992 - in addition to flying 4,188 flight hours, the squadron won its second COMNAVAIRLANT Battle Efficiency Award, its fourth CNO Aviation Safety Award, and its second CAPT Arnold J. Isbell Award for USW excellence.

On 12 January 1994, the Diamondcutters embarked aboard USS SARATOGA for her farewell deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. Again VS-30 provided large scale support to NATO forces involved in peace keeping efforts in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Bosnia-Herzegovina. While supplying the SARATOGA Joint Task Group with a variety of vital missions in support of Operations DENY FLIGHT, PROVIDE PROMISE, and SHARP GUARD, the Diamondcutters distinguished themselves by collecting vital Electronic Intelligence, assuming Surface Combat Air Patrol responsibilities, and providing direct support for strike elements as airborne tankers. VS-30 also participated in numerous joint NATO and bi-lateral exercises including NOBLE STALLION, DYNAMIC IMPACT, and ILES D'OR, operating with forces from more than a dozen countries. After completing 1,620 fours of flight and over 660 traps in MED 1-94 deployment, VS-30 returned home having earned a second COMSIXTHFLT "HOOK-EM" Award for USW excellence and the CVW-17 1-94 squadron "TOP HOOK" Award.

June 28, 1996 marked the Diamondcutters first deployment aboard the USS ENTERPRISE (CVN-65). The ENTERPRISE had just finished going through an extensive five year overhaul in the Newport News shipyards. This Med deployment was marked by operations in both the Mediterranean and the Arabian Gulf. Aircrew flew in support of Operation DECISIVE ENDEAVOR with NATO forces in the former Yugoslavia. After a record setting high-speed transit through the Suez Canal and around the Arabian Peninsula, VS-30 participated in Operation SOUTHERN WATCH over southern Iraq along with the USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). It was the first time that more than one aircraft carrier had been in the Gulf since the Gulf War in 1991.

Following the 1996 deployment, VS-30 experienced an unprecedented draw down of material assets making aircraft availability poor. As COMTUEX approached in January of 1998, the squadron was challenged with building two aircraft that had been down for nearly a year and bringing on-line the remaining six. The Diamondcutters' exceptionally hard work paid large dividends when the squadron deployed on time for COMTUEX with all eight aircraft. During COMTUEX, a Diamondcutter crew expended an AGM-84 Harpoon missile scoring a direct hit on a small exercise target. All squadron aircrew became torpedo and mine qualified during COMTUEX or during the squadron's split NAS Fallon/NAS North Island weapons detachments. Finally, when an unexpected delay in deployment occurred, the squadron was able to qualify 80 percent of its aircrew as MAVERICK operators during the POM period despite receiving its MAVERICK aircraft just two weeks prior to JTFEX. CVW-17 elected to conduct the Air Wing's NAS Fallon detachment between COMTUEX and JTFEX vice the traditional schedule of NAS Fallon-COMTUEX-JTFEX. The schedule change was made in order to boost Strike Warfare readiness levels closer to deployment date and to ensure a higher percentage of deploying aircrew would experience the strike training offered at Fallon. One adverse effect of conducting the Air Wing's NAS Fallon detachment after COMTUEX, vice before, is a large portion of the squadron's aircrew would be unable to attain major qualifications such as TORPEXs and MINEXs. In order to combat this problem, the Diamondcutters conducted a split detachment to NAS North Island for TORPEX/MINEX qualifications and to NAS Fallon for Air Wing strike training. This gave the squadron the necessary qualifications late enough in the turnaround training cycle to ensure proper readiness level throughout the deployment.

The Diamondcutters completed an intense work-up cycle on May 6th, 1998 which included several detachments to NS Roosevelt Roads, Puerto Rico, NAS Fallon, Eglin AFB, and seven at sea periods on the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER (CVN-69). On June 10th, 1998 the squadron deployed with CVW-17 on the USS DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER. While on deployment, the squadron participated in several multi-national exercises including SHAREM 125 and FANCY '98 in the Mediterranean, Operation DELIBERATE FORGE in the Adriatic, and Operation SOUTHERN WATCH in the Arabian Gulf.

When the EISENHOWER Battle Group was sent to the Adriatic Sea in support of possible strikes in Kosovo, the Diamondcutters were tasked with providing the majority of the surface surveillance and SUCAP. VS-30 aircraft provided continuous battle group coverage during flying hours which facilitated a nearly continuous S-3B MAVERICK presence. Additionally, the S-3B was the primary airborne asset to counter any possible threat posed by submarines, so every Diamondcutter aircraft was armed with torpedoes.

Perhaps more importantly, the squadron used its time on deployment to focus some of its tactical efforts on several weapon systems, which were new to the Sea Control community. The new systems included the AGM-65F Maverick missile and the AWW-13 Data Link Pod which can be used to control data link weapons such as the AGM-84E Standoff Land Attack Missile (SLAM) and the AGM-62 Walleye. Very little information was available on actually employing the MAVERICK missile against specific threats while maintaining standoff from the target's defensive capabilities. Upon evaluating the threat capabilities and consulting the Threat Reference Guide and Counter tactics publication, VS-30 personnel developed standard MAVERICK delivery profiles. The profiles provided an effective sanctuary while being able to deliver a MAVERICK attack against virtually any target in the Adriatic Sea. The squadron achieved their primary objective of developing and implementing a training syllabus on the Maverick missile, and successfully attained a 100% qualification rate among crewmembers. Along with the training syllabus, combat checklists were created to accompany the successful tactics that were being perfected for the Maverick.

VS-30 was highly effective in screening the heavy traffic areas of the Arabian Gulf for contacts of interest. Many of these areas were too close to land to allow visual identification, so the Diamondcutters used the APS-137 Radar with its unique ISAR capability and ESM information to help sort out the hundreds of contacts that hugged the coastline. The squadron aggressively sought to use the AWW-13 data link pod to control weapons carried by other air wing assets. The Diamondcutters became the first fleet S-3B squadron to control an AGM-62 WALLEYE CATM in flight. WALLEYE control was performed several more times throughout deployment simulating coordinated attacks by S-3B's and F/A-18's on surface ships and littoral targets of opportunity. The VS-30 Diamondcutters went on to finish their deployment and returned to NAS Jacksonville on 10 December 1998.

In October of 1999, the Diamondcutters participated in the Sea Control Advanced Readiness Program (SCARP) at NAS Fallon, NV in preparation for their June 2000 deployment aboard the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN-73). During SCARP, VS-30 aircrews delivered various types of ordnance and practiced detecting various early warning sites using the ALR-76 Electronic Support Measures System. The Diamondcutters will be the first Viking squadron to deploy with the new Carrier Airborne Inertial Navigation System II (CAINS II) which includes the Electronic Flight Instruments (i.e. glass cockpit display). The squadron has met the requirements to receive the Naval Safety Center twenty year Class "A" Mishap Free Award and also was nominated for the "PHOENIX" award for Maintenance Efficiency in 1999.

In preparation for its June 2000 deployment aboard the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON (CVN-73), the Diamondcutters from Sea Control Squadron 30 (VS-30) trained at NAS Fallon for three weeks. The Diamondcutters, along with the other squadrons which comprise Carrier Air Wing Seventeen (CVW-17), completed intense integrated tactical training evolutions designed by the Naval Strike Air Warfare Center (NSAWC). The mission of the training period was to hone skills, identify strengths, expose weaknesses, and improve the ability to execute as an integrated Air Wing” (Ref. http://:www.globalsecurity.org/military/agency/navy/vs-30.htm).

The squadron performed carrier operations aboard various aircraft carriers. In 1956 it provided ASW support during the Suez Crisis from Antietam (CV-36). In 1958, from Wasp (CV-18), it served during the Lebanon Crisis, and also during the Berlin Crisis in 1962. In May 1963 it was stationed for the recovery of Mercury 9, and then for the recovery of Gemini 4 in June 1965. In 1990 the squadron participated in "Operation Desert Shield", arriving in the Red Sea within a few days of the invasion of Kuwait. In 1998, the squadron was deployed aboard the John C. Stennis (CVN-74) on its maiden voyage, during which it spent 131 days in the Persian Gulf supporting "Operation Southern Watch".[1] The squadron returned from its final deployment aboard the John C. Stennis in August 2007, after supporting Operations "Iraqi Freedom" and "Enduring Freedom".[3]

“The Navy said farewell to the Topcats of Sea Control Squadron 31 (VS-31) in a disestablishment ceremony held March 27, aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville.

The Topcats, assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, ended 60 years of distinguished service. The squadron was originally established during World War II from 1942 to 1945, and was recommissioned in April 1948” (Ref. 3 & Story Number: NNS080402-04 - Release Date: 4/2/2008 12:01:00 PM - By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Toiete Jackson Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Southeast, JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS)

Over land employ the LANTIRN Targeting System to localize enemies and track them until given the authority to kill them. Use laser guided maverick missiles or buddy laze in order for others to use laser guided weapons on enemies. Pass precise coordinates to allied forces on the ground or in the air to deliver precision guided munitions to bear. Over the sea, use Automated Information System, Data Link, ESM, Radar, ISAR, NVDs, and Infrared systems to find ships. Pass their position to surface ships who will board and detain the enemy. Overhead the ship, use refueling stores. The maintenance team will get the Vikings airborne and the aircrew will put the jets in position for expeditious rendezvous in the tanker pattern.

A VS-32 S2F-1 aboard the USS Leyte, 1955.

In early 1975, VS-32 had not transitioned to the S-3A, but maintained the existing S2Fs in Hangar 11 at NAS Cecil Field, Jacksonville, FL. The Commanding Officer (CO) was CDR Ted Simpson, and the Executive Officer (XO), soon to be the CO, was CDR Procter. The Squadron was being repopulated by members that would receive the transition training to the new aircraft. During the course of the year, many members received training on common systems shared with the P-3C Orion at NAS Jacksonville, and also training on systems common to most Naval Aircraft. Many of the squadron members were chosen by the CO and XO for a particular training track.

With a few exceptions, the squadron members were transported to NAS North Island in San Diego (Coronado Island) for transition training. There was a one week layover at NSA Fallon, Nevada, due to the aircraft being needed for the final evacuation from Viet Nam. The transition training was performed by technical representatives from Lockheed Burbank, Sperry Univac, and others. Many classes were instructed by naval personnel as well. Practical on-the-job training was with VS-41, the RAG (Reserve Air Group) squadron. The aircraft were actual S-3As, flown by pilots in training, crewed by TACCOs (Tactical Coordinator Officer), SENSOs (Sensor Operators), and a copilot who was responsible for radar, FLIR, and other supplemental systems. The aircraft were maintained by members of VS-32 with assistance from VS-41 personnel.

Launch of a VS-32 S-2E from USS Wasp, 1969.

By the end of the summer of 1975, many of the training tracks were complete, and many VS-32 members continued at VS-41 performing day-to-day operations. The first VS-32 S3A was delivered, and subsequently ferried to NAS Cecil Field by VS-32 personnel. The squadron returned to NAS Cecil Field en masse late 1975, and continued to receive new aircraft regularly. Bureau numbers (BUNOs) began with 159700 and ended with 159711. The purpose of having this number of aircraft, atypical for many sea going squadrons, was that one aircraft would essentially be used for parts, rather than a large purchase of spares alone.

In 1976, preparations for working up to the first cruise with the S3 were begun. The squadron sailed on the USS John F. Kennedy out of NS Norfolk, Virginia. During these work-ups, almost the entire squadron personnel, manuals, tools, test equipment, etc. were transported to Norfolk to be loaded onto the Kennedy. After a few weeks of underway training and verification, they would return in entirety to Cecil Field for a short break before returning to the ship.

In August 1976 the squadron began moving members and aircraft to Norfolk for a North Atlantic cruise. From September to December 9, they deployed to the North Atlantic for flight operations and training for winter operations. Of course, there were plenty of live opportunities to hunt for hostile submarines. There were many successful detections, tracking, identification, and recording on audio and digital tape of Soviet and other submarines. In addition there were a few visual sightings. The S-3A was shown to be an accurate and extremely good platform for ASW.

An S-3A of VS-32 assigned to CVW-1 aboard USS America in 1982

During this cruise there were flight ops north of the Arctic Circle, with flight deck personnel in extreme cold-weather gear. Aircrew members wore "poopy" suits in case of emergency ejections. These suits, worn underneath the flight suit would add just a few minutes of survival in the very cold waters. Many flight deck crew members would return to the inside after flight quarters and be forced to wait for the insulated masks to defrost from faces before being removed. On a lighter note, the VS-32 squadron mates enjoyed a festive ceremony inducting them into the "Blue Nose Club", receiving a Certificate of Membership, and many sported noses coated with blue indelible marker ink for some time. During the cruise, the Kennedy visited Edinburgh, Scotland; Wilhemshaven, Germany; Brest, France and Portsmouth, England.

On a more serious note, the USS Kennedy and the USS Bordelon had a collision at night during underway fuel replenishment, which did cosmetic damage to the Kennedy, but seriously damaged the superstructure, and port side of the ship of the Bordelon. The main mast was broken and fell onto the signal shack. The Bordelon was subsequently towed by the USS Mount Baker to port. VS-32 suffered its first major incident when there was an explosive decompression at 24000 ft. The co-pilot broke his right arm when his side windscreen suddenly departed the aircraft. The pilot was blinded in one eye by debris, but returned his command to the ship with a near-perfect recovery. His blindness was temporary, and he returned to flight status shortly thereafter.

During this final deployment in 2007, VS-32 aircraft flew 960 sorties, which totaled more than 2,200 flight hours, and included more than 950 carrier landings. Squadron VS-32 operated at sea for 180 days with only 13 days spent in port.[1][2]